Author's Note:

Okay, I inadvertently lied last chapter. I said this chapter would be about the two couples meeting. Well, my writing took a mind of its own and before I knew it I was nearing 5000 words without even hitting the ΒΌ mark. I decided to make this chapter talk about the first part of the second day, up to the two pair's spending time together. The 'next' chapter will deal specifically with Kagome/Sesshoumaru and Kikyo/Inuyasha being forced to spend time together. Sorry for any annoyance this may cause, but I figured I'd better split up this intended chapter into two instead of having one really (and I mean really) long chapter that would take at least another week to update and updating the next chapter in a week, so you get two for the price of one.

Ayame may be a bit OOC at first, but I'm building her to her charming, don't-take-nothing-from-nobody self. The palace layout doesn't follow traditional Japanese layouts because I couldn't find much consistent information on castle layouts so I made most of it up but based the general layout on what most had. Also, don't worry about any citrus content. Even though there's a bath scene I don't do limes and certainly not lemons. Anyway, enough of my blabbering; on with the story.

Disclaimer: Rebecca runs quickly, stuffing the ownership papers in her pocket as she goes. She jumps behind some bushes as cops and dogs run by, searching in vain for what they will not find.

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Haji Soshite Tousa (Embarrassment and Exploration)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Last time: Kagome smiled. She was happy to have made a new friend, and to be getting the local gossip. 'Perhaps this won't be as bad as I originally thought,' and she settled down for a long night of laughter and stories.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------

Kagome cracked open an eye. The window was dark, indicating she had woken up before sunrise, as was her custom. She could barely see the stars through the clouds in the dark grey sky.

She blinked a bit. Sky?

It took Kagome a minute to figure out why she could see the outside. Remembering, she mumbled, "Forgot to close the draperies last night," and started stretching. She smiled, remembering the conversation she and Sango had last night.

I still can't believe Inuyasha once mooned the princess of Kidormiro... Kagome thought.

She went into the washroom and took in her appearance. It wasn't pretty. Her hair was tousled and tangled, face pale with sunken eyes and generally held the appearance everyone has in the morning. Well, almost everyone. Not Kikyo of course... Shaking her head from the resentful thoughts, Kagome filled the water basin and splashed the tepid liquid on her face.

Resting her hands on the sink, Kagome breathed deeply, lowered her head, and closed her eyes, gathering herself for the new day.

Okay, I'm going to go get breakfast, the first thought stopped her. Do they serve breakfast here this early? Oh, I'll just eat later once the sun is up.

That crisis averted, she continued. I'll read a bit, then eat, wander around the grounds and explore the castle, again Kagome stopped. How will I ever find my way around here? I was lost walking from my room to the dining room. Not to be put out, Kagome decided she would get a servant-maybe Sango, to show her around. Then dinner I suppose, then I have to meet with...Sissifru, Secharo, Sessterfu...the older Taisho for our so- called 'bonding time.'

Opening her eyes, she grimaced. She looked awful, and not just her tired face either. The long, hot journey yesterday had destroyed her entire appearance. She was covered in dried sweat and dust, her hair frizzy and wild, and she felt overall yucky.

'And I put on that new kimono last night; stupid, stupid Kagome.' Being as tired as she was, she hadn't bothered bathing before supper, so that lovely blue dress her mother gave her a few weeks ago surely reeked of soil and perspiration. And now it was crumpled in a chair by the window, as had her traveling attire been.

I really must better care of those clothes, she thought, brushing her teeth and then going back in her room.

Kagome decided to change her intended itinerary. She would bathe instead of reading. Besides, it was dark and she didn't feel like reading by firelight. Reaching the bed once more, she lit the lantern and gathered the things she would need: personal hair oils, body soap, and a scrubbing stone. The bath house would have the bathing oils and other general items she would need. Donning the yukata in her wardrobe, slippers, and throwing her hair up into an askew bun, Kagome placed on the bed a simple green dress to put on after she was through and made her way to the house.

After walking for a few moments, the girl remembered something. She had no idea where the bath house was, nor how to get there even if she did know where it was. While biting her lip and wondering what to do, a young woman appeared down the hall. She was lighting the candles and torches along the walls. Kagome studied her in admiration as she drew closer.

The girl was dressed in servant's clothing, hair put simply up into two buns, a few wisps of hair escaping here and there. The hair, not the arrangement, is what amazed Kagome. Locks the shade of fire abounded from the girl's head and Kagome wished to see them free.

So beautiful, not like mine, she dejectedly put a hand up to her own hair. This movement caught the girl's eye and she turned. Gasping when her green eyes fell on the lost princess, the girl dropped to her knees.

"I am sorry my Lady, I did not see you there." That's what I get for dreaming and not paying attention to the sights and smells. I'll be chastised for sure, not lowering myself immediately in the Lady's presence.

Brightly, Kagome said, "Oh, that's perfectly alright. I was wondering, could you-umm...you don't have to bow." The red headed girl rose slowly, looking at the brunette as though she was dressed in a jesters outfit.

What a strange princess to not make me bow in her presence. Not like the others.

"Anyway, I was wondering if you could show me to the bath houses, please?"

The maid nodded, turning to lead the way. She put down the lighter she had been carrying on a table to her left and blew out the flame on it. The girl rounded the nearest corner and swiftly started down another hall.

Kagome quickly followed, not wanting to be left behind. Thinking she should be friendly, she opened her mouth. "I'm Kagome, who are you?"

The girl turned her head slightly, wondering who the princess was speaking to at this hour in this hallway. Realizing that she was the intended, the redhead answered, "I am a maid, madam."

Confused by this response, Kagome said, "I meant, what's your name?"

This threw the servant, and after a moment she answered softly, "My name is Ayame, your highness."

"Nice to meet you, Ayame. And please, don't call me 'Oujo' or 'your highness' or anything like that, I'm just plain Kagome."

"Yes my-Kagome." Ayame smiled slightly. She liked this girl, as Sango had said she would, although she didn't believe it when her friend told of a sweet Oujo. They made a bit of small talk while walking, speaking of the castle, the weather, the food, and other meaningless items.

After walking outside and down a short forestry path, they reached the female bathing facilities, and Kagome thanked Ayame for her help. The girl promised to return in an hour's time to lead the princess to the dining room.

Kagome looked around. The bathing room was huge. A wide pool was in the center of the room, steam rising from its contents. Five smaller pools sat to the right, personal bathing units in which one could put the oils and petals that were contained in small dishes and bottles on a table nearby. A smaller pool lay close to her feet, left of the large one, a cold pool more she guessed. On either side were screens that led to changing rooms and private bathing stations.

Kagome headed left to the closest screen and upon opening found a small bench and table inside with a towel on the latter.

I'm glad the Taisho's have private sections like back home, otherwise I'd be mortified, she thought happily.

Stripping and letting her hair down, she covered herself with a small oblong towel and opened a screen adjacent to the pool opening. Kagome sighed, pleased at its contents.

A small stool and tub of warm water stood before her. A few bottles of cleaning materials were on a nearby shelf. Kagome ignored these items and extracted her own personal substances and began the rigorous and rather difficult task of cleaning herself to be suitable enough for soaking in the main bath.

Quickly rinsing herself off, Kagome sat down and poured the hair oils into her hands and began to work them through her tangled tresses. This took awhile and a few disconcerting items came out while this process was orchestrated, but her hair was finally rid of the irritating things that had collected themselves in it.

Next came her body. Rubbing vigorously with her soap and stone Kagome turned herself pink but did not care. Rinsing off quickly, Kagome tied her hair up and exited to the changing room once more. She replaced her soaps on the table and noticed with dismay that her towel was sopping wet.

Oh well, I'll just grab one from another room when I'm done, she thought pleasantly, not wanting to wait any longer to soak in the hot water.

She entered the main house and inhaled the scent of flowers and steam. Kagome decided to sit in the main bath then move to a personal one where she could soak in the oils, then finish up with a quick splash in the cold pool. She enjoyed the shock.

Slowly entering the bath, Kagome felt pure bliss as the very hot water slid up her skin. She immersed herself to her chin, sighing contentedly. She ducked her face into the steamy water and then decided to completely go under for a jiffy.

Kagome sat at the bottom of the pool, allowing the water to work its miracle on her aching muscles.

I wonder why the bath is hot at this hour. It must take a lot of time and energy to keep the baths stocked and like this all the time. Not very economical... She continued to think along this path. This offered enough distraction for a figure to enter the other end of the bath unnoticed. The person ducked underneath the water moments before Kagome broke the surface.

Kagome closed her eyes, sitting happily on the submerged bench. She allowed all ill thoughts of Kikyo and the deception to drift away, allowing herself to get lost in the hotness surrounding her.

A noise disturbed her from her rest, and she unclosed an eye to see what bothered her respite. She saw nothing and no one, but before she could relax again something below the water caught her eye. A silver bob was flowing through the water a few feet away and headed right for the confused and slightly scared girl. It suddenly broke the surface and a surprised miko came face to face with an equally surprised half demon.

They stared at each other for a moment. Kagome took in the man's appearance. Hair partially hid his heated face, mouth open slightly and panting from the swimming, amber eyes open wide and a myriad of emotions whirling in them. Half of his upper body was visible, beads of water dripping down his chest and arms (nicely built chest and arms Kagome noticed unconsciously).

Inuyasha was thinking similar thoughts. He saw Kagome's pinned hair atop her head, drooping from the weight of the water and smatterings of locks here and there along her attractive face and neck. Her skin was flushed and eyes wide, staring at him. He didn't look beyond her collarbone. Propriety wasn't number one on Inuyasha's list of attributes, but his mother's teachings were still imprinted.

All that was heard were the two's rough breath. Then all hell broke loose.

Kagome shrieked, threw her arms over her chest, and kicked out, trying to get herself as far from the naked boy in front of her as possible. Inuyasha scrambled back at the sound of her scream, but was caught by one of her flailing feet straight in the stomach and doubled over, wind knocked out of him. He disappeared under the water for a few seconds before breaking the surface. He found water splashed in his face along with a slipper that felt harder than it looked. This caused him to stumble once more, falling backwards, creating a wave. Water sloshed over the edge of the pool.

All this time Kagome was yelling "Pervert," "Hentai," and "Get out!!!" while trying to find something to cover herself up with. Inuyasha emerged dramatically, anger seething from every inch. Kagome was sitting in the corner of the pool, quiet now, arms covering her slightly visible chest.

They stared at each other again, only this time fury, embarrassment, and disgust filled their eyes.

"What is wrong with you wench?!" the male screamed, irritated by the injuries he had sustained.

Kagome narrowed here eyes. "Me? You're the one who is sneaking around and spying on me, you hentai!"

Confusion mixed with the fury in Inuyasha's head, and he ground out, "I was most certainly NOT spying on you. I bathe here every morning at this time. Besides, why would I want to look at 'you'?"

Ignoring the insult, Kagome snapped, "You're in the women's bath house!"

"The men's is under reconstruction, baka! We have been bathing in here for the past few weeks until it's finished. The only woman who uses this is my mother and she bathes in the afternoon so forgive me if I didn't call out 'male coming through' when I entered!"

At this Kagome's anger lessened a bit. So that's why it's piping hot at this hour. I guess it wasn't his fault really, if he always used the pool in the morning and the men's house was broken. But she was not about to give in, with him calling her 'wench' and 'baka,' not to mention insulting her looks.

Clearing her thoughts, she retorted, "Well, how was 'I' to know that? No one told me that I would be sharing this with men nor was I told that you would be here at this hour, so don't yell at me!"

Inuyasha opened his mouth to yell back, but found himself strangely not wanting to argue. He pushed his lips together and both lapsed into quiet again, glaring at each other. The silence was unsettling to say the least.

"Well?" Kagome finally asked.

"Well what?" he snapped, agitated at the entire situation.

Rolling her eyes, she said, "Aren't you going to turn around so I can get out and get dressed?"

Inuyasha snorted, muttered something about "Stupid females," and looked away.

Slightly surprised that he complied so easily, Kagome said, "And don't you dare look over here, I don't care what happens." She started to raise herself out of the pool but suddenly had second thoughts and dropped back into the water.

Inuyasha turned to her, wondering what in the world she was doing getting back into the pool. "Oi, are you off your rocker woman?"

"How can I be sure you're not going to peek? You just looked back at me when I told you not to."

"For crying out loud! You made sounds like you were getting back in-which you were. I'm not going to look, just GET OUT so I can finish my bath in peace," Inuyasha's limited patience was almost completely gone.

Kagome squared her shoulders and stated in a no-nonsense voice, "I will not. You get out first and go to your changing room and then I'll finish up here and let you know when I'm done."

He gaped at her. Did she just tell him that she was going to finish her bath and let him know when she was done? Growling, he retorted, "I don't think so girl. This is my home, my pool, and my bathing time. Get out."

"First of all, my name is Kagome, not 'wench' or 'girl' or any other name your limited vocabulary decides to deposit on me. Secondly," she glared at him, cutting off his come back, "I'm the guest in your home and I'm the girl. That makes you a host and a gentleman, both roles which require you to acquiesce to my request and let me enjoy the bath-before you."

"I'm not giving up my bath to an uppity princess who doesn't know her place!"

"I'm not giving up my bath for a self-important prince who doesn't know how to be polite!"

"Fine!"

"Fine!"

Both turned from the other, arms crossed over their chests and a stubborn look on their faces. They stood there for awhile, livid with anger. Slowly they realized how silly the situation was, two adults pouting in a bath house because they aren't getting their way. Even when he realized this, Inuyasha wasn't one to give in.

I'll stand in this water until it's cold and both of us are forever wrinkled if that's what it takes. He smirked slightly at the thought of a shivering princess with pruned fingers.

Kagome, being more reasonable and less sadistic, turned to her unwanted bath mate. "Well, we can't both bathe together in here, so how about a compromise? I'll turn away and you can get out and go to your changing room and I'll go to one of the private baths, "she waved to her right," and cover the opening with the sauna box things so I can't see out and you can't see in. You can come back in to the main pool and finish your bath while I wait, and you let me know when you're done and I'll get out and dress."

Inuyasha just smirked, stating, "I don't feel like it. I'm not getting out of the water until I'm finished soaking, so you can just stand there till I'm done." He headed for the bench beside the shocked girl.

Did he just, what the, how can he... "WHAT?!" Kagome was so shocked she didn't have the presence of mind to be embarrassed by his movements.

Inuyasha settled himself a suitable distance to her left and looked at her horrified face. "You want the privacy, so you get out. I'm perfectly fine here," and with that he closed his eyes and leaned his head back. "Oh, by the way, I like to soak for a long time, so if you're staying you'd better get comfortable, and stooping isn't comfortable."

Kagome was furious again, more than she had been at their initial meeting in the pool. That guy is such a...a...an idiot! She stood there for a few moments, trying to figure out what to do when her eyes fell on something next to the pool. Looking around the building quickly, she grinned evilly.

Still smirking and not knowing he was in danger, Inuyasha listened for her movements. He hadn't been able to smell her when he got in because of the intensity of the oils, but his hearing wasn't impeded at all. He heard some splashing and wondered briefly if the princess was actually going to get out. Dying to know what she was doing but not wanting to look interested, the half demon sat in curious silence, straining to hear. The sloshing of water was coming closer, and the prince began to wonder what in hell she was up to.

He soon found out. A hard thing came down upon his head quickly, followed by his being dunked. Disoriented, he fumbled a bit underwater before emerged, splashing, sputtering, and tugging at the vice-like object on his head. After a few tugs he got the blasted thing off and saw it was the bucket that was kept by the pool for rinsing. Something sticky hit him in the back of the head and he turned to see what had caused the attack.

Kagome stood, red robe encompassing her, with a bowl of what Inuyasha did not know. "That's what you get for being rude and coming in here while I was bathing and not letting me..." she drabbled on, anger evident in her voice.

Peeling what had attached itself to his head, Inuyasha discovered a handful of leaves, bathing and soaking leaves to be exact. He opened his mouth to yell but she pelted him with another handful of leaves before he could utter a sound. He shook his head in the manner a dog would and started for the princess so as to restrain her from further assaults. Before he could reach for Kagome she dumped the entire contents on his head, followed by some slippery and pungent liquid that ran down his face and torso, dropping to the pool's bottom. This was followed by a towel and the command, "Finish up, your highness, and dry off!"

Inuyasha awkwardly clutched the towel about his waist and stumbled from the bath. He wiped the leaves and oily stuff from his eyes and grasped the retreating girl's arm.

"What in the world girl?! What did I do?"

"You were a jerk and wouldn't let me get out without looking so I had to make sure you wouldn't peek on my own. Let go!"

Kagome tried to wrench her limb from his grip but he held on tight, trying to keep the goo on his head from dripping down into his face. Inuyasha was out of hands so either he had to let her or the covering go to clean his face once more. She didn't want to find out which he would choose.

"Wench, wait a second! I wasn't looking at you and-hey! That's my robe, give it back," he tried to grab the red clothing while keeping a hold of her arm; not an easy task.

"Hentai!!! I will not give it back to you so LET ME GO!" and with that Kagome shoved with all her might. The gunk caused Inuyasha to loose his grip on her and she slipped from his grasp. He reeled backwards, an arm flailing (for he was still grasping the towel) and tripped over the cold pool's edge, landing in the middle of its contents.

Yelping and thrashing to rid himself of the icy water, Inuyasha groped about in the bath. Towel forgotten, he hoisted himself out of the small pool and looked up in time to see Kagome in his red robe disappear through the bath's entrance. He growled slightly and stumbled into the main bath, howling in pain as the burning liquid came into contact with his chilled skin.

Righting himself, the half demon sat there for awhile, sulking and grumbling about women and baths. Stupid girl, yelling at me, throwing things at me, hitting me, dropping crap on my head, stealing my favorite robe, pushing me into that intolerably cold water...

Inuyasha sighed and looked at the water surrounding him. Leaves and various liquids bobbed and descended around him. He frowned, worry momentarily replacing anger, "Mother's going to be mad at me for getting stuff in the main bath-even though it wasn't my fault."

Deciding the water was already ruined he dunked his head under and started to get the gross concoction out of his hair. Feeling the horrible stuff in his lovely hair caused dark thoughts to manifest once more about the brunette. Grabbing some soap off the nearby table, Inuyasha dropped back in the bath and scrubbed his hair until it was rid of the foreign things.

He climbed out of the bath and donned a guest robe he found in a storage bin, starting to trudge back to his room. As he ran claws through his hair to untangle it, he reflected on the strange morning he had.

What an odd girl. Any other princess I know of would have blushed and respectfully asked me to fetch her a robe. Not this witch though. She accused and attacked me. Lively as hell though; Sesshoumaru should have fun trying to get her under control. He frowned a bit. At least she speaks her mind. The younger girl looks like she would throw herself off a cliff if someone asked her to. Cold too; her skin would most likely freeze whatever touched it. Oh well, maybe she has a hidden fire like her sister- what was her name? Coco, Kamo, Kigo... suddenly that and all other thoughts ceased. Inuyasha looked at the mane in his palm in shock and horror. His face blanched, then turned crimson from rage.

"KAGOME!!!!"

----------

She stopped rushing along. Did someone say my name? Shrugging it off, Kagome continued with what she had been doing: thinking nasty thoughts about Inuyasha.

What a trying little prince! Spying on me, not getting out first, attacking me when I tried to leave and attempting to disrobe me, she had an idea to go back and let him have it again, but decided against it. No need to return to the scene of the crime. I'll get him later by more, passive means. Her thoughts were consumed by what she could do to torture Inuyasha with when a surprised gasp brought her out of her aggressive thoughts.

"Okugata Kagome, what are you doing out of your room at this hour?" Sango's worried and curious eyes looked at Kagome, taking in her appearance. "Oh, you were bathing." Her eyes widened in fear. "BATHING?! Oh no, I hope you didn't-"

"I did. But don't worry Sango, there was nothing seen and we both kept our modesty about us as best possible. Although I recommend cleaning the main bath soon; Inuyasha had an accident and spilt some bathing oils and a basket of leaves in the water. He is clumsy, as you know."

A grin crept onto Sango's face. "Oh yes, the boy is very clumsy. Do tell what his misstep was this time."

Kagome laughed and proceeded to walk arm and arm with Sango down the halls, retelling the morning's events. The servant girl laughed at the tale, happy to find someone else who knew how to handle Inuyasha. She did vow, however, to hurt him for not compromising and insisting that she be the one to move.

Before Kagome knew it they were standing at her door.

"How did you know I was going here?"

"Well it wasn't hard to figure out. You were coming from the baths and unless you wanted to attend breakfast in your yukata..."

Kagome giggled a bit. "Alright, alright. Will you come back for me so that I can find my way through this cornucopia of halls and rooms? I think I remember where we went yesterday but-"

"Oh no," Sango cut her off. "There are several rooms for meals. There are three dining halls, two breakfast rooms, and several duplicates of other rooms."

Kagome grimaced. "I'm never going to get the layout of this castle down if I never return to the same place!"

Sango laughed. "I admit it's strange at first with all the different rooms, but they have their purpose I assure you. You'll get the hang of it in no time. Breakfast is served in about half an hour. I'll return for you and your sister at that time."

"Sango, is it alright for Kouga and Naraku to join us at the table? I miss my friends and they are our bodyguards if there's some stipulation about royals eating with servants."

The girl shook her. "No, Shokou Taisho do not care if they join us. Most servants do not eat at the same time as the family, however; plus, if someone happens to see us dining with them it puts a black mark on the family."

Noticing her friend's confused look, she explained further. "You see, my highnesses enjoy our company, but the other rulers look down on their lax 'rules' as they put it, so any hints as to the actually permissiveness would discredit the Taisho's name and the other kingdoms would not want to associate with them, and that cannot happen."

Shaking her head from the absurdity of it all, Kagome just said, "Okay then, will you please make sure the two men get to the dining-err, breakfast hall as well?"

The servant girl nodded and left Kagome.

The princess looked after her, speculating what foods breakfast would provide. Realizing she was standing in the hall with just her bathing robe on, Kagome quickly entered her room.

She dressed in her undergarments and sat at her vanity. Her combs and hair ties and pins were laid out on the table before her. She wondered for a moment when the maids had time to unpack all her things before picking up a comb and slowly detangling her hair. She never used brushes. She knew that they tore up her hair and caused it to break and frizz. This irritated her mother to no end because it was close to impossible to get her long tresses to twist into the ornate styles royals wore, much less behave when they did manage to get them up. It wasn't Kagome's fault that she had been born with the less than thick hair her grandmother had. The older woman would tell her she had beautiful hair because it flowed better than her mother's and sister's, had a much better texture to it. Kagome smiled. She had been the favorite grandchild, above Kikyo even. She supposed it was because she acted a lot like her grandmother.

Kagome's thoughts drifted further down that path as she continued to mess with her hair, untangling it and trying different styles before giving up and twisting it up into a simple bun held with two hair sticks.

She slipped into her kimono, intending to finish dressing and put on some face paint before Sango retrieved her. She had felt so naked and unattractive next to her sister and Queen Izayoi last night and didn't think she could take another meal like that. The ties on her outfit were proving less than cooperative. Struggling to knot the material behind her, a voice drew Kagome out of her battle with the dress.

"Need help, dear sister?"

She turned to find Kikyo standing effortlessly in the washroom's doorway. She wore a deep green kimono and her hair was put into a beautiful arrangement that Kagome's fingers could never hope to copy.

She wanted to say she didn't need aid, that she could do it on her own, but that was obviously not so. She just nodded and allowed her sister to finish dressing her. Kagome felt like a child.

"Striking dress. Isn't this the one Mother bought you last year?" Kikyo queried softly, nimble fingers working.

Kagome nodded and found the material contracting a bit. Mother does this too, making it so tight one cannot breathe. She puffed out her chest in hopes of having some breathing room later, but Kikyo was not as easily daunted as the maids.

"I remember when you received it. Your eyes lit up, hands tracing the fabric's edges in awe at such a gift. You always did find amazement in the gifts she gave. It didn't matter if the present was the finest silk dress or a carved box, you treated each with as much care as a priest would the words of Buddha." During her little speech Kikyo had tied the material taught against her sister's body and tied a lovely bow. She stepped back and admired her handiwork.

Kagome stood there a minute, confused as to why Kikyo decided to bring up her gift receiving habits. It wasn't said with disdain or contempt, but reflection. That was unusual because most facts said about Kagome were said to show what was wrong and what could be done better by her.

The younger sister turned and mumbled a quiet "thank you" before heading over to the vanity once more. Good thing she doesn't know that I've been leaving the expensive kimonos in crumpled heaps the past two days. She caught the poised girl studying her in the mirror. This unsettled Kagome, who just stared back at the reflection.

"Kagome, I'm here to show you to breakfast. Are you ready?" Sango's voice floated through the door and shook the named girl out of her stupor. "Yes, I'll be right out." As an afterthought she added, "My sister is in here with me, so don't go to her door."

She stood and slipped on her shoes. Putting her hand on the door handle, Kagome started turning the knob. Kikyo's hand appeared on the wood beside her head, causing her to stop opening the door.

"You should have worn face paint, sister. It isn't respectful for a princess to be seen without it."

Kagome rolled her eyes a bit and opened the door for Kikyo to walk through, who did and told Sango to address both of them properly. Kagome just made a 'don't listen to her' signal behind her sister's back and the three walked to breakfast.

----------

Kagome fell back on her door, worn out and agitated. She still couldn't believe her sister and Inuyasha. Kikyo hadn't received Kouga and Naraku very well at the table, instead raising a critical eye and turning her nose up at the two. Naraku hadn't seemed bothered by the actions; though he did always look as though nothing bothered him. Kouga wasn't pleased by her snobbery, but brushed it off since he wanted to be in his lady's company more than her sister's.

Inuyasha hadn't been any better than Kikyo. He rudely brought up the bathing accident-blaming the entire thing on Kagome, of course. She was able to defend herself somewhat, though the prince made sure to follow every one of her comments with one of his own.

He also accused her of ruining something dear to him, but for the life of her Kagome couldn't figure out what he was talking about. She told Sango that the boy's robe was in her room and that it should be returned to him before he blew a fuse. The prince kept at it though. She could barely see straight by the time both stories were finished she was so irritated. Then he kept glaring at her and Kouga and interrupted their conversations constantly. Kagome didn't know what in the world his problem was!

Why was he wearing that towel-thing on his head anyway? It reeked of herbs. Who does he think he is, a Maharajah from the west? she thought, walking to her bed.

"Ohhh! He makes me so-MAD!" she shouted, kicking the frame. Cringing from the impact, she hobbled over to a chair and sat down, rubbing her offended limb gingerly.

Kagome couldn't afford an injury now, not when Ayame and Sango were to show her and Kouga around the palace and its grounds. She had caught the latter girl while exiting the breakfast room and she was promised a tour led by both servants. Kouga had overheard the conversation and insisted he join her on the exploration. It didn't bother her that he wanted to see the sights, just that he insisted on accompanying her everywhere. His protection was endearing, yet very annoying at the same time. Kagome understood he was her bodyguard, but they had forgone their professional relationship long ago in favor of friendship.

She looked around the room, noting her bed had been made and her dirty dress removed since she had been eating. Her eyes fell on a book that lay before her on the small table. Kagome decided to entertain herself by reading while she waited for the trip to begin.

She had barely gotten past the beginning pages when a knock came to her door. Ayame, Sango, and Kouga were ready to go exploring. Kagome replaced the book to its original spot on the table and exited the room.

----------

The palace was magnificent; four stories of splendor and mystery. The first floor contained the normal rooms: the banquet hall, throne room, dining and breakfast rooms, meeting places and such.

The second floor was for non-royal guests such as Kouga and Naraku and contained the servant's quarters, kitchens, laundry stations, and other behind-the-scenes rooms.

Kagome's floor was the third and her favorite. The left side housed the royal family and the royal guests stayed on the right.

"Why are the royal rooms on the third and not second floors?" Kagome queried, peering down another grand corridor.

"The Taisho's have always thought that everyone's comfort should come before their own, so our King designed the castle so that the servant's would be put under as little burden as possible. It is easier for them to access the other two floors from the middle rather than the top floor."

Kagome nodded and grinned softly, Thoughtful rulers.

Kouga glanced at his Okami, thinking, What a smile.

It wasn't the lodging but the other places that amazed Kagome. The enormous library, vast map, trophy, and armor rooms, and other fascinating accommodations were kept on this floor and caught her eye. She browsed the map and armor rooms for two hours before the other three dragged her off the story. They headed outside instead of upstairs because the fourth floor was just an attic.

The grounds were just as amazing. Within the walls was a beautiful and large garden, tended by the Queen herself daily, to the back right of the building. A chapel lay right and the stables and soldier barracks to the left. Sango offered to take her riding anytime she wished. Kagome was happy, for she missed her horse back home. The bathing area was near the right wall too (as Kagome well-knew). To the immediate back were the training grounds that Kagome was dying to try her archery out on.

Maybe I can get Kikyo to come out here with me soon. Naraku and Kouga can practice nearby to keep their skills up, and Kikyo shouldn't go anywhere her bodyguard isn't... she continued to plot.

Mountains rose high beyond these buildings, creating a stunning view. Outside the walls was a gorgeous lake on the east mirrored by a small but lush forest on the west.

Small talk happened as the four walked. Most of it was about the magnificence of the castle and the lands but some was centered on the personal lives of each participant.

Sango came from a demon exterminating town which was destroyed when she was younger, so her father brought her and her brother to the palace to join the Taisho guard. She trained with the males and didn't join the house staff until the other two were killed in a skirmish with a demon lord a few years ago. Sango continued her practice and training, but was more useful leading the staff than following a commander when no active army was necessary.

Ayame was from a wolf pack that had been slaughtered by two demons. The Taisho's found her while traveling back from a peace talk a decade back and brought her to their castle. She was a sweet girl who worked closely with Sango in the castle as well. She had found no male yet, though she was past what was considered the appropriate age for mating, but was content with her role in the Taisho kingdom.

Kouga revealed that he had been assigned to Kagome five years ago as a bodyguard but they had known each other for their lives. Both grew up in the Higurashi kingdom together, practicing weaponry and riding together. They were very close, having spent a good deal of time together since Kikyo wasn't a playful child. Kagome told the girls that her sister spent most of the time reading or practicing archery or doing other 'royal' things.

When questioned about the "other man," Kagome told what she knew of Naraku. He had come to the kingdom 8 years ago, right after the end of a long war in a southern kingdom. He had been a scholar but for some reason decided to travel upward to the Higurashi realm, where he continued his studies but also took up the position of personal dorei/keigo to Kikyo. Naraku was highly secretive so they knew little about his past.

It was close to lunch so the small group could not explore too much of the grounds since so much time had been spent indoors, but Ayame promised Kagome she would show her more tomorrow.

Kagome and Kouga went immediately to the dining room because of the time crunch and received three dirty looks as they entered the room.

"Kouga, you know better than to keep Lady Kagome from her meals. Your job is to look after her," Naraku informed the younger man. He was the least irked of the trio.

Kikyo added, "I agree. Kouga, you should be watching after my...elder sibling, not encouraging her tardiness. And sister, spending so much personal time with your servant. It is not proper. You should concentrate your time and energy on more lasting matters." This caused Kagome to turn red, from embarrassment and anger.

The last nasty expression confused the girl because it came from Inuyasha, who still wore the towel impersonating a turban on his head. The look wasn't aimed at her but at Kouga, who was glaring back.

What is wrong with them? Some problem between dogs and wolves? this thought caused Kagome to stifle a giggle, which both demons heard. Kouga broke the staring contest and helped the princess to her seat, then took his place across from her. The angry glare followed his every movement.

The meal's conversation was better than the earlier one's, concentrating more on the Taisho's and Higurashi's lands and kingdoms. Kikyo spoke of home and her miko training, while Kagome only answered questions aimed at her for fear of slipping up and revealing that she wasn't the elder sister. Sesshoumaru talked about the economic conditions in the kingdom mainly, throwing in some geographical and defense commentary every once in awhile.

How exciting, Kagome thought.

King Inutaisho and his wife inspired most of the conversation with Naraku and Kouga, through Inuyasha put in his two cents when he deemed necessary. The meal was strained, but not quite as bad as before.

It will get easier, Kagome told herself as she drank her tea.

"My dears, I cannot wait to speak to both of you later this evening. I'm sure you will tell me about your lives at home in more detail without these men around," Izayoi said, winking at the sisters conspiratorially and smiling at her husband.

"Until then, I hope you two will find yourselves happy with acquainting yourselves with my sons. Sesshoumaru wishes to speak with Kagome-hime in the grand library and Inuyasha with Kikyo-hime in the main sitting room," she continued, shooting warning looks at the boys. The half-demon appeared less than thrilled at the idea of spending the greater part of the afternoon with his bride-to-be but kept his mouth shut.

After the meal was completed Kagome and Kikyo were led back to their rooms by a maid so they could prepare themselves appropriately for meeting with their betrotheds. Kagome could have sworn she saw her sister's face brighten a bit as she walked into her room to clean up.

Kagome sat down on her bed, nervously twisting her dress' material in her hands.

Should I change or keep my kimono on? I have been walking around in it all day, I'll change. Well, I don't want them to think I change clothes constantly, so maybe I won't. Oh I don't know!

More than her appearance troubled Kagome. What will the prince be like? He seemed distant, like someone else she was acquainted with, and that worried her.

Can I really marry someone like that? Someone so...cold?

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Terms:

Yukata-Japanese bathing kimono

Oujo-Princess

Dorei-servant

Okugata-Lady

Shokou-Lords

Okami-Mistress

Keigo-bodyguard

-----------------------------------

I know these first few chapters are kind of boring and non-action orientated, but I'm trying to build the characters and relationships before plunging into the action and killing and all that great stuff. Please deal with me, promise some action by if not before chapter 5.

Oh, by the way, I've decided that my story has to suck because I get no reviews. So, after coming to this conclusion, I've decided to ask for reviews that tell me what's wrong with the story because something apparently isn't right. Am I not writing enough dialogue, too much talking; not developing the characters or having a predictable and all-around horrible storyline? Please, tell me so I can improve on it, because honestly I don't publish the stories for my own pleasure, but so that others can enjoy them as much as I enjoy writing them. Sorry if I sound really whiny now, because that's not my intent; I just want to be made aware of what's wrong so I can make it right. Thanks to all those who are still with me through that long author's note. I'll update soon!